Is a ‘Charlie Kirk Act’ Coming? Trump Hints at Media Accountability Push

A new debate has started in the United States. Supporters of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk are calling for a new law. They want it named the ‘Charlie Kirk Act’.

Former President Donald Trump has now added weight to the idea. On his platform, Truth Social, Trump shared a viral TikTok video. In the clip, a woman demanded that Congress bring back stronger media accountability rules. She suggested naming the act after Kirk, who was shot dead at Utah Valley University on September 10.

Online Campaign for the Charlie Kirk Act

The video argues that media lies and hate speech caused harm. The woman claimed that past laws to regulate information were removed under Barack Obama and Joe Biden in 2013. She urged Trump to make it “impossible for the media to lie to Americans.”

Her words have fueled an online movement. Thousands of posts on X and TikTok now demand a Charlie Kirk Act. Some want heavy fines on media outlets accused of spreading propaganda. Others believe it could restore public trust.

A petition on Change.org has also been launched. At the time of writing, it has more than 17,700 signatures. This reflects a growing push among conservatives to connect Kirk’s death to calls for reform.

Connection to the Smith-Mundt Act

The calls are tied to an older law known as the Smith-Mundt Act of 1948. That act regulated how the U.S. government spread information abroad. It created services like Voice of America to promote American values overseas.

In 2013, the law was amended. This allowed U.S. government information programs to be made available inside the country. Critics argue that this change opened the door to manipulation. Now, many conservatives want the law restored and renamed in Kirk’s honor.

According to Reuters, the debate over media accountability has gained traction after Kirk’s killing. He was the founder of Turning Point USA and a close ally of Trump. His death has become a rallying cry for those demanding stricter media rules.

What Could a Charlie Kirk Act Mean?

If such a law is proposed, it could reshape media regulation in the U.S. Supporters see it as a tool to punish “lying media.” They believe it would protect public figures from character attacks.

Critics, however, warn of risks to free speech. Any attempt to control what the press can say could spark legal battles. The U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment protects freedom of expression. Courts would likely play a major role in deciding the scope of such a law.

For now, the “Charlie Kirk Act” remains only an idea. But with Trump’s backing, the campaign has entered mainstream political debate.

The demand for a Charlie Kirk Act is growing. Whether it becomes law is uncertain. But the push has already reignited a fierce battle over free speech and media power in America.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Charlie Kirk Act?

It is a proposed law suggested by supporters of Charlie Kirk. They want it to regulate media accountability in the U.S. It is not yet a real law.

Q2: Why is it linked to the Smith-Mundt Act?

The Smith-Mundt Act controlled U.S. government information abroad. Critics say changes in 2013 weakened protections. Supporters want it restored and renamed for Kirk.

Q3: Did Donald Trump support the idea?

Trump shared a viral video calling for the law. He has not made a formal proposal. But his post gave the idea national attention.

Q4: How many people have signed the petition?

A Change.org petition has gained more than 17,700 verified signatures. The number is still rising as the debate grows.

Q5: Could this affect free speech?

Yes. Supporters say it will stop lies. Critics warn it could limit press freedom. Courts would likely face major legal battles over it.